The anticipation has been palpable, the whispers growing louder with each passing day. Now, the moment has arrived. Bologna FC, under the astute guidance of manager Vincenzo Italiano, has officially declared its 23-player squad for the highly anticipated Europa League campaign. For the Rossoblù faithful, this marks a significant return to the continental stage, a journey fraught with challenges but brimming with potential.
Italiano`s Calculated Choices for Europe
Crafting a squad for European competition is always a delicate balancing act, a strategic chess game where every piece matters. Vincenzo Italiano, known for his tactical acumen, has meticulously assembled a roster designed to navigate the rigors of both domestic and international football. His selections reflect a blend of experience, youthful exuberance, and specific tactical needs, all while contending with the fickle hand of fate.
The Unfortunate Absences: A Test of Depth
No major tournament is without its heartbreaks, and Bologna`s Europa League squad announcement is no exception. Perhaps the most significant blow comes with the exclusion of star striker Ciro Immobile. The veteran forward, a veritable goal machine, sustained an injury during the opening league fixture, a cruel twist that is expected to sideline him for several weeks, potentially missing the crucial initial three European encounters. One can almost hear the collective sigh of disappointment from the Bologna faithful, as the sight of their prolific scorer leading the line in Europe will have to wait.
Further notable omissions include Benja Dominguez, who will also be watching from the sidelines, and the latest arrival, Sulemana. Veteran defender De Silvestri, a name familiar to European campaigns from previous clubs, also finds himself off the list, a decision that echoes his exclusion from last year`s Champions League squad. These absences will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of Italiano`s roster, demanding others to step up and fill the void.
Key Inclusions: The Pillars of the European Quest
Despite the setbacks, the squad is far from lacking in talent and determination. The inclusion of defender Holm, diligently working his way back to full fitness for the upcoming Serie A clash against AC Milan, is a promising sign. His presence will bolster the defensive lines, a critical component for any successful European venture.
Leading the charge in the attacking third will be Riccardo Orsolini, often considered the team`s creative heartbeat and `extra man` on the pitch. His flair and goal-scoring ability will be crucial. Adding a layer of invaluable experience and big-game temperament is Federico Bernardeschi. His acquisition was reportedly made with this very competition in mind, highlighting the club`s ambition and commitment to a strong European showing. These players, alongside a core of established and emerging talents, form the vanguard of Bologna`s challenge.
The European Gauntlet: Bologna`s Group Stage Schedule
Bologna`s European odyssey kicks off with a challenging slate of fixtures. Their journey will see them traverse the continent, facing diverse opposition that will test their mettle from the outset:
- September 25: Away vs. Aston Villa
- October 2: Home vs. Freiburg (Debut at the Stadio Renato Dall`Ara)
- October 23: Away vs. Steaua (Bucarest)
- November 6: Home vs. Brann (An intriguing, less common match-up)
- November 27: Home vs. Salzburg
- December 11: Away vs. Celta Vigo (Spain)
- January 22 (New Year): Home vs. Celtic Glasgow (A classic European night awaits)
- January 29: vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv (Likely in Serbia, adding another layer of complexity)
This schedule promises a compelling narrative, demanding adaptability and consistency from Italiano`s squad.
The Full Roster: Who Made the Cut?
Here’s the complete list of the 23 players Vincenzo Italiano has entrusted with Bologna’s Europa League ambitions:
Goalkeepers:
- Skorupski (1)
- Ravaglia (13)
Defenders:
- Holm (2)
- Heggem (14)
- Casale (16)
- Zortea (20)
- Lykogiannis (22)
- Lucumi (26)
- Miranda (33)
- Vitik (41)
Midfielders:
- Pobega (4)
- Moro (6)
- Freuler (8)
- Ferguson (19)
- Pessina (25)
- Fabbian (80)
Forwards:
- Orsolini (7)
- Castro (9)
- Bernardeschi (10)
- Rowe (11)
- Odgaard (21)
- Dallinga (24)
- Cambiaghi (28)
As Bologna FC prepares to embark on this thrilling European journey, the chosen 23 represent more than just a squad; they embody the hopes and dreams of an entire city. With strategic leadership, a blend of proven talent and emerging stars, and the inevitable challenges of injuries, their campaign promises to be a captivating spectacle. The stage is set, the players are ready – it`s time for the Rossoblù to write a new, exciting chapter in their storied history.